Danish logistics company DFDS has ordered six battery-electric terminal tractors from MOL and Volvo Penta as part of its strategy to gradually replace its fleet of 280 diesel-powered vehicles.
The order builds on a collaboration between the three companies that began in 2021 to develop what they described as the first operational electric 4×4 RoRo terminal tractor. A prototype was delivered in 2024 to DFDS’s terminal in Ghent, Belgium, where it has been used in daily operations for over a year.
“The MOL and Volvo Penta engineering teams asked us exactly what we wanted, they delivered it, and then asked us how they could improve it and help us further. It’s great finding solutions together, and that’s exactly how it should be, particularly in this new era of electrification,” said Raf De Wit. “In our view, MOL and Volvo Penta aren’t suppliers – we consider them partners, and I know that’s how they would describe us too.”
The newly ordered vehicles are the series-production MOL RME225 model. Each unit is equipped with a Volvo Penta electric powertrain, including three batteries with a combined capacity of 270 kWh, two 200 kW traction motors, an EPT802 transmission and an additional 50 kW motor for hydraulic systems and the fifth-wheel coupling.
To support the transition, Volvo Penta has partnered with Volvo Financial Services to provide financing solutions. DFDS has signed a seven-year leasing agreement covering the six tractors, including maintenance services and insurance.
“Leasing electric equipment is an attractive option for end customers while the technology evolves rapidly and the upfront investment remains higher than for traditional combustion engine equipment,” said Jeroen Overvelde. “Now that we have developed this financial solution, we will bring this approach to other segments, markets, OEMs, and customers, supporting the transition to sustainable transport solutions and making electrification more accessible for customers.”
